AQW 26264/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 29/04/2025
Answered On Date: 15/05/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the rationale for reducing the recognition threshold for trade unions from 21 to 10 employees; and (ii) any engagement she has had with trade unions and businesses on this issue.

Answer:

I am committed to increasing the number of employees who have access to the support and guidance that a trade union can offer. To that end I have decided to reduce the statutory recognition threshold from 21 to 10, as proposed in the consultation document issued in July 2024. I, my predecessor and departmental officials have engaged with trade unions, leading business representatives and other stakeholders on numerous occasions in relation to the totality of the good jobs agenda, including this change. This engagement has included introductory meetings with relevant officials, Ministerial led engagement forum meetings and three workshop style meetings prior to consultation launch. It has also included official attendance at four Labour Relations Agency Engagement Forum meetings comprised of union and business representatives. My predecessor met with trade unions and business representatives during the consultation period, and numerous trade unions and businesses were invited to attend an academic event run by my Department prior to the consultation closing. My officials gave presentations, heard views and answered questions about the proposals at several meetings and conferences organised by business organisations and attended by hundreds of participants. I also took account of the 192 formal responses to the consultation in making my decision on this issue. My officials and I will continue to liaise with key stakeholders as the planned Bill passes through the Assembly.